Elle Cleaves

Dr. Elle Cleaves is an Assistant Professor of Psychiatry at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences (USUHS) and serves as the Psychiatry Clerkship Director. She is a board-certified general psychiatrist and holds the rank of Major in the U.S. Air Force. Previously, she was Medical Director of the Mental Health Flight at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, following her role as chief resident during her psychiatry residency.

Education:

• Psychiatry Residency, University of Texas Health San Antonio (2013-2017)
• M.D., University of Virginia (2009-2013)
• B.A. in Psychology (with distinction), University of Virginia (2004-2008)

Research Focus: Her work centers on trauma, resilience, and medical education, with emphasis on psychological first aid, disaster preparedness, and military mental health. She develops training modules for healthcare providers and integrates military cultural competence into medical curricula.

Publications: Recent articles explore trauma healing in clinical psychiatry and military life education, reflecting her dual focus on therapeutic interventions and medical training innovation.

Awards:

• Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Medical Society (President of chapter at University of Virginia)

Academic Contributions: She co-leads large-scale simulations for mass casualty response training and presents nationally on disaster preparedness in medical education through ADMSEP conferences.